Loading Page...

What is the best way to pay for things in Cancun?

The best currency to take to Cancun is Mexican pesos (MXN) as this is the official currency of the country and will save you money when paying for purchases. However, U.S. dollars are also widely accepted, so it's possible to use dollars when traveling in Cancun.



People Also Ask

Cash is a necessity in Cancun, given that many restaurants and gift shops don't accept credit cards. Like many other airports around the world, the Cancun airport is jam-packed with money exchange kiosks looking to convert your money into Mexican pesos.

MORE DETAILS

Cash is a necessity in Cancun, given that many restaurants and gift shops don't accept credit cards. Like many other airports around the world, the Cancun airport is jam-packed with money exchange kiosks looking to convert your money into Mexican pesos.

MORE DETAILS

Should I tip in pesos or U.S. dollars in Cancun? It's always best to tip servers, bartenders, and spa and hotel staff in pesos (MXN). Cancun's economy thrives when people travel and tip generously, and tipping is likely to get you upgrades and special treatment.

MORE DETAILS

It's recommended that you buy pesos before you land in Mexico, just in case you need the cash. According to this USA Today article, the most economical way to do this is to buy pesos from your bank in the U.S. Most banks will do this for free, especially if you're not withdrawing a significant amount of money.

MORE DETAILS

9 travel tips for your next trip to Cancun
  • Pre-book your airport transfer. ...
  • Make full use of Cancun's public buses. ...
  • Choose the right hotel for your budget. ...
  • Don't spend all your time on the beach. ...
  • Sign up for tours to nearby destinations. ...
  • Eat and shop in Downtown Cancun. ...
  • Take it easy on your first day.


MORE DETAILS

The best way to spend in Mexico is a combination of both cash and your debit card. Larger businesses and those in major cities are likely to accept debit cards, but not all will. Some smaller stores and businesses may only accept cash. For example, market stalls, street food stands and taxis.

MORE DETAILS

They are fantastic for tacos and other fast food. With 100 Pesos, tourists can also buy ice cream, fruits, or juice from the local food markets. If they do not want to spend their money on food, they can purchase a ticket to enter Tulum ruins, Chapultepec Castle, Museo Nacional de Antropologia, etc.

MORE DETAILS

Preparing your travel money options beforehand is the key to a stress-free vacation. Credit cards, debit cards, prepaid travel cards and cash are all accepted in Mexico. Outside of a few purchases like transportation fare or local shops, a credit card will be your best bet for everyday purchases.

MORE DETAILS

For traveling (even on a backpacker budget) it is perhaps better to consider what 500 pesos (or $25 will buy). That is enough to rent a car for a way (minus non-specified expenses). It is also enough for dormitory accommodation in some of the cheapest hostels in Mexico City for two nights (around $8 per night).

MORE DETAILS

Follow the 25% rule regardless of how many days you will be in Mexico. For example, if your total budget for a seven-day vacation is $1500USD, you should bring a total of $375USD or $7,000 MXN. This totals about $50USD in cash per day.

MORE DETAILS

If you're on a tour with a lot of people (20-100 people), each person should leave a tip of at least $5 U.S. (90 pesos). If you're on a tour with very few people (e.g., four people in your family), the group should leave a tip that is equivalent to 15-20% of the cost of the tour.

MORE DETAILS